Labor approves 4.41% increase for health insurance premiums – as it happened

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Total fire ban across much of Victoria today

A total fire ban has been declared across a large stretch of southern Victoria today. The ban applies to the central, north central, south west, west and south Gippsland and Wimmera fire districts amid forecasted hot, dry temperatures.

We're seeing very dry fuels across large parts of the state, and when that's paired with low humidity, fires can start easily and spread quickly.

Any spark under these conditions has the potential to turn into something serious, particularly ahead of gusty winds or thunderstorms.